Nikon D3 User's Manual

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DIGITAL CAMERA

User's Manual

Where to Find It

Find what you’re looking for from:

The Q&A Index

Know what you want to do but don’t know the function name? from the “question and answer” index.

The Table of Contents

Find items by function or menu name.

The Quick Start Guide

A brief guide for those who want to get started taking pictures right away.

The Index

Search by key word.

Error Messages

If a warning is displayed in the viewfinder or monitor, find the solution here.

Tro ubl esho otin g

Camera behaving unexpectedly?

A For Your Safety

Before using the camera for the first time, read the safety instructions in “For Your Safety” (pg. xviii).

Find the solution here.

➜

pp. iv–ix

Find it

pp. x–xvii

pp. 23–24

pp. 446–452

pp. 417–424

pp. 410–416

Digitutor

Digitutor, a series of “watch and learn” manuals in movie form, is available from the following website:

http://www.nikondigitutor.com/index_eng.html

Package Contents

Be sure all items listed here were included with your camera. Memory cards are sold separately.

❏ D3 digital camera (pg. 3)

❏ BF-1A body cap (pp. 4, 395)

❏ BS-2 accessory shoe cover (pg. 3)

❏ EN-EL4a rechargeable Li-ion battery with terminal cover (pp. 32,

34)

❏ MH-22 quick charger with power cable and two contact

protectors (pp. 32, 441)

❏ UC-E4 USB cable (pp. 260, 268)

❏ USB cable clip (pg. 263)

❏ EG-D2 audio/video cable (pg. 278)

❏ AN-D3 strap (pg. 5)

❏ Warranty

❏ User’s Manual (this guide)

❏ Quick Guide

❏ Software Installation Guide

❏ Software Suite CD-ROM

❏ Registration card (U. S. A. only)

Symbols and Conventions

To make it easier to find the information you need, the following symbols and conventions are used:

This icon marks cautions; information that should be read before

use to prevent damage to the camera.

This icon marks notes; information that should be read before

using the camera.

Menu items, options, and messages displayed in the camera monitor are shown in brackets ([ ]).

A Trademark Information

Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Microsoft, Windows and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Corporation. Microdrive is a trademark of Hitachi Global Storage Technologies in the United States and other countries. HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. All other trade names mentioned in this manual or the other documentation provided with your Nikon product are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk

Introduction

Tutorial

Image Recording Options

Focus

Release Mode

ISO Sensitivity

Exposure

White Balance

Image Enhancement

Flash Photography

Other Shooting Options

More About Playback

Voice Memos

Connections

Menu Guide

Technical Notes

iii

Q&A Index

Find what you’re looking for using this “question and answer” index.

❚❚ New Features

Question Key phrase See page

How do I take pictures in 35mm format? Image area 60 How do I take high-quality NEF (RAW) photos? How do I record photographs using two memory cards? Can I use the monitor as a viewfinder? Live view 90 Can I control how photos are processed? Picture Controls 166 How do I preserve details in shadows and highlights? How do I focus on erratically moving subjects? Can I adjust focus separately for different lenses?

❚❚ Camera Setup

Question Key phrase See page

How do I focus the viewfinder? Viewfinder focus 47 How do I keep the monitor from turning off? How do I keep the shutter speed and aperture displays from turning off?

14-bit NEF (RAW) 69

Slot 2 72

Active D-Lighting 185

3D-tracking 312

AF fine tune 364

Monitor off delay 323

Auto meter off 50, 322

Question Key phrase See page

How do I set the clock? How do I set the clock for daylight savings time? How do I change time zones when I travel? How do I adjust monitor brightness for menus or playback? How do I restore default settings? Two-button reset 208 How do I restore shooting menu defaults? How do I restore Custom Setting defaults? How do I change the self-timer delay? Self-timer delay 323 Can I reverse the electronic analog exposure display? Can I display the menus in a different language? Can I save menu settings for use on a different D3 camera?

World time 40, 352

LCD brightness 350

Reset shooting menu 297

Reset custom settings 308

Reverse indicators 348

Language 352

Save/load settings 361

❚❚ Menus and Displays

Question Key phrase See page

How do I get more information on a menu? How do I use the menus? Using the menus 28 What do these indicators mean? What information is in the shooting information display?

What does this warning mean?

How much charge does the battery have left? How do I get more information about the battery?

Help 31

Viewfinder, control panels, shooting information display

Error messages and displays

Battery level 48

Battery info 358

8, 10,

12, 14

417

Question Key phrase See page

How do I keep the file number from being reset when I insert a new memory card? How do I reset file numbering to zero? How do I clean the camera or lens? Cleaning the camera 398

File number sequence 326

❚❚ Taking Photographs

Question Key phrase See page

How many more shots can I take with this card?

How do I take bigger photographs? How can I get more photos on the

memory card? Can I control how the camera focuses? Autofocus 73 How do I take a lot of photographs quickly? Can I change the frame advance rate? Shooting speed 88, 325 Can I shoot a self-portrait? Self-timer mode 103 Can I take pictures under low light without the flash? Can the ISO sensitivity I choose be adjusted to ensure optimal exposure?

How do I freeze or blur moving objects?

How do I blur background details or keep both foreground and background in focus?

Number of exposures remaining

Image quality and size 66, 70

Release mode 86

ISO sensitivity 108

ISO sensitivity auto control Exposure mode f (shutter-priority auto)

Exposure mode g (aperture-priority auto)

110

120

122

Question Key phrase See page

Can I set both shutter speed and aperture manually? Can I make photos brighter or darker? Exposure compensation 132

How do I make a time exposure? Long time-exposures 126 Can I vary exposure or flash level

automatically over a series of photos? Can I create multiple copies of a photo using different white balance settings? How do I adjust white balance? White balance 144 How do I change settings for the optional flash unit? How can I record multiple shots as a single photograph? Can I record voice memo when taking a photograph?

Can I pick the standard exposure level?

How can I reduce blur? Exposure delay mode 329

Exposure mode h (manual)

Exposure and flash bracketing White balance bracketing

Flash mode 198

Multiple exposure 210

Voice memo 252

Fine tune optimal exposure

124

135, 332

139, 332

320

❚❚ Viewing Photographs

Question Key phrase See page

Can I view my photographs on the camera? Can I view more information about photos?

Why do parts of my photos blink? Photo info, highlights 235, 286

Camera playback 230

Photo info 233

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Question Key phrase See page

How do I get rid of an unwanted photo?

Can I delete several photos at once? Delete 285 Can I zoom in on pictures to make sure

they’re in focus? Can I protect photos from accidental

deletion? Can I hide selected photos? Hide image 285 How do I tell if parts of my photos may be overexposed?

How do I tell where the camera focused?

Can I view photos as they are taken? Image review 291 Can I record a voice memo on photos? Voice memo 255 Is there an automatic playback (“slide

show”) option?

Deleting individual photos

Playback zoom 247

Protect 248

Display mode: highlights

Display mode: focus point

Slide show 292

249

286

❚❚ Retouching Photographs

Question Key phrase See page

How do I bring out details in shadows? D-Lighting 369 Can I get rid of red eye? Red-eye correction 370 Can I crop photographs on the camera? Trim 371 Can I create a monochrome copy of a

photograph? Can I create a copy with different colors? Filter effects 373 Can I use camera to create JPEG copies of

NEF (RAW) photographs? Can I overlay two photos to make a single

image?

Monochrome 372

Color balance 373

Image overlay 374

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❚❚ Viewing or Printing Photographs on Other Devices

Question Key phrase See page

Can I view my photos on TV? Television playback 278 Can I view my photos in High Definition? HDMI 280

How do I copy photos to my computer?

How do I print photographs? Printing photographs 266 Can I print photos without a computer? Printing via USB 267 Can I print the date on my photographs? Time stamp 270, 274 How do I order professional prints? Print set (DPOF) 276

Connecting to a computer

260

❚❚ Optional Accessories

Question Key phrase See page

What optional flash units (Speedlights) can I use? What lenses can I use? Compatible lenses 386 What AC adapters, remote cords, and viewfinder accessories are available for my camera?

What memory cards can I use?

What software is available for my camera?

Optional flash units 191

Other accessories 391

Approved memory cards

Other accessories 395

397

Table of Contents

Q&A Index ................................................................................................iv

For Your Safety .................................................................................. xviii

Notices.....................................................................................................xxi

Introduction 1

Overview....................................................................................................2

Getting to Know the Camera..............................................................3

Camera Body....................................................................................... 3

The Top Control Panel ..................................................................... 8

The Rear Control Panel..................................................................10

The Viewfinder Display..................................................................12

The Shooting Information Display............................................14

The Command Dials .......................................................................16

Quick Start Guide................................................................................. 23

Tutorial 25

Camera Menus...................................................................................... 26

Using Camera Menus .....................................................................28

Help ......................................................................................................31

First Steps ............................................................................................... 32

Charge the Battery ..........................................................................32

Insert the Battery .............................................................................34

Attach a Lens.....................................................................................37

Basic Setup.........................................................................................39

Insert a Memory Card.....................................................................42

Formatting Memory Cards...........................................................45

Adjust Viewfinder Focus ...............................................................47

Basic Photography and Playback................................................... 48

Turn the Camera On .......................................................................48

Adjust Camera Settings.................................................................51

Ready the Camera ...........................................................................54

Focus and Shoot.............................................................................. 55

Viewing Photographs.................................................................... 57

Deleting Unwanted Photographs............................................. 58

Image Recording Options 59

Image Area............................................................................................. 60

Image Quality........................................................................................ 66

Image Size .............................................................................................. 70

Slot 2 ........................................................................................................ 72

Focus 73

Focus Mode ........................................................................................... 74

AF-Area Mode....................................................................................... 76

Focus Point Selection......................................................................... 78

Focus Lock.............................................................................................. 80

Manual Focus ........................................................................................ 83

Release Mode 85

Choosing a Release Mode ................................................................ 86

Continuous Mode................................................................................ 88

Framing Pictures in the Monitor (Live View) ............................. 90

Self-Timer Mode.................................................................................103

Mirror up Mode ..................................................................................105

ISO Sensitivity 107

Choosing ISO Sensitivity Manually..............................................108

Auto ISO Sensitivity Control ..........................................................110

Exposure 113

Metering ...............................................................................................114

Exposure Mode...................................................................................116

e: Programmed Auto ..................................................................118

f: Shutter-Priority Auto ..............................................................120

g: Aperture-Priority Auto ...........................................................122

h: Manual......................................................................................... 124

Shutter-Speed and Aperture Lock...............................................127

Autoexposure (AE) Lock ..................................................................129

Exposure Compensation.................................................................132

Bracketing ............................................................................................134

White Balance 143

White Balance Options ....................................................................144

Fine-Tuning White Balance ............................................................147

Choosing a Color Temperature ....................................................151

Preset Manual .....................................................................................152

Image Enhancement 165

Picture Controls..................................................................................166

Creating Custom Picture Controls.......................................... 174

Active D-Lighting...............................................................................185

Color Space..........................................................................................187

Flash Photography 189

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The Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)...............................190

Compatible Flash Units ...................................................................191

CLS-Compatible Flash Units .....................................................191

Other Flash Units ..........................................................................195

i-TTL Flash Control.............................................................................197

Flash Modes.........................................................................................198

FV Lock ..................................................................................................202

Flash Contacts.....................................................................................205

Other Shooting Options 207

Two-Button Reset: Restoring Default Settings .......................208

Multiple Exposure .............................................................................210

Interval Timer Photography .......................................................... 215

Non-CPU Lenses.................................................................................222

Using a GPS Unit ................................................................................225

More About Playback 229

Full-Frame Playback .........................................................................230

Photo Information............................................................................. 233

Viewing Multiple Images: Thumbnail Playback .....................245

Taking a Closer Look: Playback Zoom........................................247

Protecting Photographs from Deletion.....................................248

Deleting Individual Photographs ................................................249

Voice Memos 251

Recording Voice Memos .................................................................252

Playing Voice Memos .......................................................................257

Connections 259

Connecting to a Computer............................................................260

Direct USB Connection ...............................................................262

Wireless and Ethernet Networks .............................................265

Printing Photographs.......................................................................266

Direct USB Connection ...............................................................267

Viewing Photographs on TV..........................................................278

Standard Definition Devices .....................................................278

High-Definition Devices .............................................................280

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Menu Guide 281

D The Playback Menu: Managing Images...............................282

Delete........................................................................................... 285

Playback Folder......................................................................... 285

Hide Image ................................................................................. 285

Display Mode............................................................................. 286

Copy Image(s) ...........................................................................287

Image Review ............................................................................ 291

After Delete................................................................................ 291

Rotate Tall................................................................................... 291

Slide Show .................................................................................. 292

Print Set (DPOF)........................................................................ 293

C The Shooting Menu: Shooting Options...............................294

Shooting Menu Bank .............................................................. 295

Reset Shooting Menu ............................................................. 297

Active Folder.............................................................................. 297

File Naming ................................................................................ 300

Slot 2............................................................................................. 300

Image Quality ............................................................................ 300

Image Size................................................................................... 301

Image Area .................................................................................301

JPEG Compression................................................................... 301

NEF (RAW) Recording .............................................................301

White Balance............................................................................ 301

Set Picture Control................................................................... 302

Manage Picture Control......................................................... 302

Color Space ................................................................................302

Active D-Lighting..................................................................... 302

Vignette control ....................................................................... 303

Long Exp. NR (Long Exposure Noise Reduction) ..........304

High ISO NR................................................................................304

ISO Sensitivity Settings ..........................................................305

Live View .....................................................................................305

Multiple Exposure.................................................................... 305

Interval Timer Shooting......................................................... 305

A Custom Settings: Fine-Tuning Camera Settings ..............306

B: Custom Setting Bank........................................................ 308

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A: Reset Custom Settings .....................................................308

a: Autofocus ....................................................................................309

a1: AF-C Priority Selection.....................................................309

a2: AF-S Priority Selection .....................................................310

a3: Dynamic AF Area ...............................................................311

a4: Focus Tracking with Lock-On........................................313

a5: AF Activation.......................................................................313

a6: Focus Point Illumination .................................................314

a7: Focus Point Wrap-Around..............................................315

a8: AF Point Selection .............................................................315

a9: AF-ON Button......................................................................316

a10: Vertical AF-ON Button ...................................................317

b: Metering/Exposure..................................................................318

b1: ISO Sensitivity Step Value ..............................................318

b2: EV Steps for Exposure Cntrl. ..........................................318

b3: EV Steps for Exposure Comp.........................................318

b4: Easy Exposure Compensation ......................................319

b5: Center-Weighted Area ....................................................320

b6: Fine Tune Optimal Exposure.........................................320

c: Timers/AE Lock ..........................................................................322

c1: Shutter-Release Button AE-L .........................................322

c2: Auto Meter-off Delay........................................................322

c3: Self-Timer Delay .................................................................323

c4: Monitor off Delay...............................................................323

d: Shooting/Display......................................................................324

d1: Beep .......................................................................................324

d2: Shooting Speed .................................................................325

d3: Max. Continuous Release ...............................................325

d4: File Number Sequence....................................................326

d5: Control Panel/Viewfinder...............................................327

d6: Shooting Info Display ......................................................328

d7: LCD Illumination................................................................329

d8: Exposure Delay Mode......................................................329

e: Bracketing/Flash .......................................................................330

e1: Flash Sync Speed ...............................................................330

e2: Flash Shutter Speed..........................................................331

e3: Modeling Flash...................................................................331

e4: Auto Bracketing Set..........................................................332

e5: Auto Bracketing (Mode M).............................................333

e6: Bracketing Order ............................................................... 334

f: Controls ........................................................................................335

f1: Multi Selector Center Button ......................................... 335

f2: Multi Selector....................................................................... 336

f3: Photo Info/Playback.......................................................... 336

f4: Assign FUNC. Button......................................................... 336

f5: Assign Preview Button ..................................................... 342

f6: Assign AE-L/AF-L Button .................................................343

f7: Customize Command Dials............................................ 344

f8: Release Button to Use Dial.............................................. 346

f9: No Memory Card? .............................................................. 347

f10: Reverse Indicators ...........................................................348

B The Setup Menu: Camera Setup...............................................349

Format Memory Card .............................................................350

LCD Brightness.......................................................................... 350

Lock Mirror up for Cleaning .................................................350

Video Mode................................................................................ 351

HDMI............................................................................................. 351

World Time................................................................................. 352

Language .................................................................................... 352

Image Comment ......................................................................353

Auto Image Rotation ..............................................................354

Voice Memo ............................................................................... 354

Voice Memo Overwrite ..........................................................355

Voice Memo Button ................................................................355

Audio Output ............................................................................355

USB ................................................................................................ 355

Dust off Ref Photo.................................................................... 356

Battery Info................................................................................. 358

Wireless Transmitter ...............................................................359

Image Authentication ............................................................359

Save/Load Settings.................................................................. 361

GPS ................................................................................................ 363

Virtual Horizon .......................................................................... 363

Non-CPU Lens Data................................................................. 363

AF Fine Tune .............................................................................. 364

Firmware Version ..................................................................... 365

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N The Retouch Menu: Creating Retouched Copies .............366

D-Lighting...................................................................................369

Red-Eye Correction..................................................................370

Trim................................................................................................371

Monochrome .............................................................................372

Filter Effects ................................................................................373

Color Balance .............................................................................373

Image Overlay............................................................................374

Side-by-Side Comparison......................................................377

O My Menu: Creating a Custom Menu......................................379

Adding Options to My Menu....................................................379

Deleting Options from My Menu ............................................381

Reordering Options in My Menu .............................................382

Technical Notes 385

Compatible Lenses ...........................................................................386

Other Accessories..............................................................................391

Caring for the Camera......................................................................398

Storage..............................................................................................398

Cleaning ...........................................................................................398

Replacing the Focusing Screen................................................399

Replacing the Clock Battery ......................................................401

The Low-Pass Filter.......................................................................403

Caring for the Camera and Battery: Cautions..........................406

Troubleshooting ................................................................................410

Error Messages ...................................................................................417

Appendix ..............................................................................................425

Specifications......................................................................................435

Index....................................................................................................... 446

xvii

For Your Safety

To prevent damage to your Nikon product or injury to yourself or to others, read the following safety precautions in their entirety before using this equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them.

The consequences that could result from failure to observe the precautions listed in this section are indicated by the following symbol:

This icon marks warnings. To prevent possible injury, read all

warnings before using this Nikon product.

❚❚ WARNINGS

A Keep the sun out of the frame

Keep the sun well out of the frame when shooting backlit subjects. the camera when the sun is in or close to the frame could cause a fire.

Sunlight focused into

A Do not look at the sun through the

viewfinder

Viewing the sun or other strong light source through the viewfinder could cause permanent visual impairment.

A Using the viewfinder diopter control

When operating the viewfinder diopter control with your eye to the viewfinder, care should be taken not to put your finger in your eye accidentally.

xviii

A Turn off immediately in the event of

malfunction

Should you notice smoke or an unusual smell coming from the equipment or AC adapter (available separately), unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery immediately, taking care to avoid burns. operation could result in injury. After removing the battery, take the equipment to a Nikonauthorized service center for inspection.

Continued

A Do not disassemble

Touching the product’s internal parts could result in injury. the event of malfunction, the product should be repaired only by a qualified technician. the product break open as the result of a fall or other accident, remove the battery and/or AC adapter and then take the product to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection.

Should

A Do not use in the presence of

flammable gas

Do not use electronic equipment in the presence of flammable gas, as this could result in explosion or fire.

A Keep out of reach of children

Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury.

A Do not place the strap around the neck

of an infant or child

Placing the camera strap around the neck of an infant or child could result in strangulation.

A Observe proper precautions when

handling batteries

Batteries may leak or explode if improperly handled. the following precautions when handling batteries for use in this product:

• Use only batteries approved for use in this equipment.

• Use only CR1616 lithium batteries to replace the clock battery. Using another type of battery could cause an explosion. Dispose of used batteries as directed.

• Do not short or disassemble the battery.

• Be sure the product is off before replacing the battery. using an AC adapter, be sure it is unplugged.

• Do not attempt to insert the battery upside down or backwards.

• Do not expose the battery to flame or to excessive heat.

Observe

If you are

• Do not immerse in or expose to water.

• Replace the terminal cover when transporting the battery. transport or store the battery with metal objects such as necklaces or hairpins.

• Batteries are prone to leakage when fully discharged. damage to the product, be sure to remove the battery when no charge remains.

• When the battery is not in use, attach the terminal cover and store in a cool, dry place.

• The battery may be hot immediately after use or when the product has been used on battery power for an extended

Before removing the

period. battery turn the camera off and allow the battery to cool.

• Discontinue use immediately should you notice any changes in the battery, such as discoloration or deformation.

Do not

To a voi d

xix

A Observe proper precautions when

handling the quick charger

• Keep dry. precaution could result in fire or electric shock.

• Dust on or near the metal parts of the plug should be removed with a dry cloth. could result in fire.

• Do not handle the power cable or go near the charger during thunderstorms. observe this precaution could result in electric shock.

• Do not damage, modify, or forcibly tug or bend the power cable. heavy objects or expose it to heat or flame. insulation be damaged and the wires become exposed, take the power cable to a Nikonauthorized service representative for inspection. Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock.

• Do not handle the plug or charger with wet hands. to observe this precaution could result in electric shock.

Failure to observe this

Continued use

Failure to

Do not place it under

Should the

Fai lure

A Use appropriate cables

When connecting cables to the input and output jacks, use only the cables provided or sold by Nikon for the purpose to maintain compliance with product regulations.

A CD-ROMs

CD-ROMs containing software or manuals should not be played back on audio CD equipment. Playing CD-ROMs on an audio CD player could cause hearing loss or damage the equipment.

A Observe caution when using a flash

• Using optional flash units in close contact with the skin or other objects could cause burns.

• Using optional flash units close to the subject’s eyes could cause temporary visual impairment. Particular care should be observed when photographing infants, when the flash should be no less than one meter (39 in.) from the subject.

A Avoid contact with liquid crystal

Should the monitor break, care should be taken to avoid injury due to broken glass and to prevent the liquid crystal from the monitor touching the skin or entering the eyes or mouth.

Notices

•

No p art of t he manua ls inc lude d with this product may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form, by any means, without Nikon’s prior written permission.

•

Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware and software described in these manuals at any time and without prior notice.

Notices for Customers in the U.S.A.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Inter ference Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.

If this equipment does cause

•

Nikon will not be held liable for any damages resulting from the use of this product.

•

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in these manuals is accurate and complete, we would appreciate it were you to bring any errors or omissions to the attention of the Nikon representative in your area (address provided separately).

CAUTIONS

Modifications

The FCC requires the user be notified that any changes or modifications made to this device that are not expressly approved by Nikon Corporation may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Interface Cables

Use the interface cables sold or provided by Nikon for your equipment. interface cables may exceed the limits of Class B Part 15 of the FCC rules.

Notice for Customers in the State of California WARNIN G: Handling the cord on this product

may expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

hands after handling.

Nikon Inc., 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, New York 11747-3064, U.S.A. Tel.: 631-547-4200

Using other

Wash

xxi

Notices for Customers in Canada

CAUTION

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Symbol for Separate Collection in European Countries

This symbol indicates that this product is to be collected separately. The following apply only to users in European countries:

•

This product is designated for separate collection at an appropriate collection point.

• For more information, contact the retailer or the local authorities in charge of waste management.

Notice Concerning Prohibition of Copying or Reproduction

Note that simply being in possession of material that has been digitally copied or reproduced by means of a scanner, digital camera, or other device may be punishable by law.

• Items prohibited by law from being copied or reproduced

Do not copy or reproduce paper money, coins, securities, government bonds, or local government bonds, even if such copies or reproductions are stamped “Sample.”

The copying or reproduction of paper money, coins, or securities which are circulated in a foreign country is prohibited.

Unless the prior permission of the government has been obtained, the copying or reproduction or unused postage stamps or post cards issued by the government is prohibited.

The copying or reproduction of stamps issued by the government and of certified documents stipulated by law is prohibited.

Do not dispose of as household waste.

ATT EN TI ON

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

• Cautions on certain copi es and reproductions

The government has issued cautions on copies or reproductions of securities issued by private companies (shares, bills, checks, gift certificates, etc.), commuter passes, or coupon tickets, except when a minimum of necessary copies are to be provided for business use by a company. not copy or reproduce passports issued by the government, licenses issued by public agencies and private groups, ID cards, and tickets, such as passes and meal coupons.

• Comply with copyright notices

The copying or reproduction of copyrighted creative works such as books, music, paintings, woodcuts, prints, maps, drawings, movies, and photographs is governed by national and international copyright laws. not use this product for the purpose of making illegal copies or to infringe copyright laws.

Also, do

xxii

Disposing of Data Storage Devices

Please note that deleting ima ges or formatting memory cards or other data storage devices does not completely erase the original image data. sometimes be recovered from discarded storage devices using commercially available software, potentially resulting in the malicious use of personal image data.

Ensuring the privacy of such data is the user’s responsibility.

Before discarding a data storage device or transferring ownership to another person, erase all data using commercial deletion software, or format the device and then completely refill it with images containing no private information (for example, pictures of empty sky). preset manual. data storage devices.

Use Only Nikon Brand Electronic Accessories

Nikon cameras are designed to the highest standards and include complex electronic circuitry. chargers, batteries, AC adapters, and flash accessories) certified by Nikon specifically for use with this Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within the operational and safety requirements of this electronic circuitry.

The use of non-Nikon electronic accessories could damage the camera and may void your Nikon warranty. rechargeable Li-ion batteries not bearing the Nikon holographic seal shown at right could interfere with normal operation of the camera or result in the batteries overheating, igniting, rupturing, or leaking.

For more information about Nikon brand accessories, contact a local authorized Nikon dealer.

Care should be taken to avoid injury when physically destroying

Only Nikon brand electronic accessories (including battery

Be sure to also replace any pictures selected for

The use of third-party

Deleted files can

xxiii

A Before Taking Important Pictures

Before taking pictures on important occasions (such as at weddings or before taking the camera on a trip), take a test shot to ensure that the camera is functioning normally. Nikon will not be held liable for damages or lost profits that may result from product malfunction.

A Life-Long Learning

As part of Nikon’s “Life-Long Learning” commitment to ongoing product support and education, continually-updated information is available online at the following sites:

• For users in the U.S.A.: http://www.nikonusa.com/

• For users in Europe and Africa: http://www.europe-nikon.com/support

• For users in Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East: http://www.nikon-asia.com/

Visit these sites to keep up-to-date with the latest product information, tips, answers to frequently-asked questions (FAQs), and general advice on digital imaging and photography. Additional information may be available from the Nikon representative in your area. See the following URL for contact information: http://imaging.nikon.com/

xxiv

Introduction

This chapter covers information you will need to know before using the camera, including the names of camera parts.

Overview.............................................................................. pg. 2

Getting to Know the Camera ........................................... pg. 3

Camera Body ....................................................................................... pg. 3

The Top Control Panel...................................................................... pg. 8

The Rear Control Panel .................................................................. pg. 10

The Viewfinder Display.................................................................. pg. 12

The Shooting Information Display ............................................ pg. 14

The Command Dials ....................................................................... pg. 16

Quick Start Guide ............................................................. pg. 23

Overview

Thank you for your purchase of a Nikon single-lens reflex (SLR) digital camera. Please be sure to read all instructions thoroughly

to get the most from the camera, and keep them where they will be read by all those who use the product.

D Use Only Nikon Brand Accessories

Only Nikon brand accessories certified by Nikon specifically for use with your Nikon digital camera are engineered and proven to operate within its operational and safety requirements.

COULD DAMAGE YOUR CAMERA AND MAY VOID YOUR NIKON WARRANTY.

D Servicing the Camera and Accessories

The camera is a precision device and requires regular servicing. recommends that the camera be inspected by the original retailer or a Nikon-authorized service representative once every one to two years, and that it be serviced once every three to five years (note that fees apply to these services). Frequent inspection and servicing are particularly recommended if the camera is used professionally. Any accessories regularly used with the camera, such as lenses or optional flash units, should be included when the camera is inspected or serviced.

THE USE OF NON-NIKON ACCESSORIES

Nikon

Getting to Know the Camera

Take a few moments to familiarize yourself with camera controls and displays. You may find it helpful to bookmark this section and refer to it as you read through the rest of the manual.

Camera Body

1 D (bracketing)

button .......................135, 139, 332

2 Release mode dial

lock release....................................87

3 Release mode dial.......................87

4 Eyelet for camera strap ............... 5

5 M (flash mode) button ............200

6 F (command lock)

button .................................127, 128

7 Focal plane mark (E)................84

8 Metering selector..................... 115

9 Metering selector

lock button................................. 115

10 Power switch.................................48

11 Shutter-release button...... 55, 56

12 E (exposure compensation)

button...........................................132

13 Eyelet for camera strap................5

14 I (exposure mode)

button...........................................117

Q (format) button.....................45

15 Top control panel ..........................8

16 Diopter adjustment knob........ 47

17 Accessory shoe ..................22, 205

(for optional flash unit)

18 Accessory shoe cover

........................................ 22, 205, 408

Camera Body (Continued)

1 Mirror............................90, 105, 403

2 Self-timer lamp .........................104

3 Flash sync terminal cover...... 205

4 Ten-pin remote terminal

cover....................................225, 396

5 Flash sync terminal.................. 205

6 Ten -pin rem ote

terminal ..............................225, 396

7 USB connector cover .....262, 268

8 Lens release button....................38

9 Connector cover..............278, 280

10 USB connector................. 262, 268

11 DC-IN connector for

optional AC adapter EH-6......391

12 Audio/video (A/V)

connector ....................................278

13 HDMI connector........................280

14 Focus-mode selector.......... 74, 83

15 Battery-cover latch..................... 34

16 Battery-chamber cover............. 34

17 Meter coupling lever...............437

18 Body cap......................................395

1 Depth-of-field preview

button .................................117, 342

2 Sub-command dial.....................16

3 Fn button .....................64, 203, 336

4 Sub-command dial for

vertical shooting .........................16

5 Shutter-release button for

vertical shooting .........................54

6 Vertical shooting shutter-

release button lock ....................54

7 CPU contacts

8 Mounting index ..........................37

9 Lens mount................................... 84

10 Tripod socket

❚❚ Attaching the Camera Strap

Attach the camera strap securely to the two eyelets on the camera body as shown below.

Camera Body (Continued)

1 Viewfinder eyepiece...................47

2 Eyepiece shutter lever...............47

3 O (delete) button............... 58, 249

Q (format) button.....................45

4 K (playback) button .......57, 230

5 Monitor.......................... 57, 90, 230

6 G (menu) button.......... 26, 281

7 N (thumbnail/playback

zoom) button ...................246, 247

8 L (protect) button ...............248

? (help) button..............................31

R (info) button............................14

9 J (OK) button.............................. 28

10 Speaker.........................................258

11 Rear control panel.............10, 327

12 ISO (ISO sensitivity) button.....108

Two-button reset button.......208

13 QUAL (image quality/size)

button...................................... 67, 71

14 WB (white balance)

button........................145, 150, 151

Two-button reset button.......208

15 Microphone................................252

D The Speaker and Microphone

Do not bring magnetic devices, such as microdrive cards, close to the built-in speaker or microphone.

1 Viewfinder .....................................47

2 A (AE/AF lock) button

.......................................... 80, 81, 343

3 B (AF-ON) button ..........75, 97

4 Main command dial...................16

5 Multi selector................................28

6 Focus selector lock .....................78

Memory card access lamp....43, 56

8 Memory card slot cover............42

9 Card slot cover release button

(under cover)................................ 42

10 B (AF-ON) button for

vertical shooting.......................317

11 H (microphone) button..........253

12 AF-area mode selector .............76

13 Main command dial for

vertical shooting......................... 16

The Top Control Panel

1 2

6 7

8 9

1 Shutter speed...................120, 124

Exposure compensation

value .............................................132

Number of shots in exposure and flash bracketing

sequence..................................... 135

Number of shots in

WB bracketing sequence ...... 139

Number of intervals for interval timer photography Focal length

(non-CPU lenses)...................... 224

ISO sensitivity ............................ 108

2 Shutter-speed lock icon......... 127

3 Flexible program indicator... 119

4 Exposure mode......................... 116

5 Flash mode................................. 198

6 Shooting menu bank.............. 295

7 Custom settings bank............. 308

8 Memory card indicator

(slot 1).......................................42, 45

.... 218

11 12

14 15

9 Memory card indicator

(slot 2) ...................................... 42, 45

10 Number of exposures

remaining...................................... 49

Number of shots remaining

before memory buffer fills ......88

Capture mode indicator.........260

Aperture stop indicator

.. 123, 389

12 Aperture (f-number)...... 122, 124

Aperture (number of

stops)................................... 123, 389

Exposure and flash bracketing

increment....................................136

WB bracketing increment......140

Number of shots per

interval .........................................218

Maximum aperture

(non-CPU lenses) ......................224

PC mode indicator....................263

16 17

SHOOT

CUSTOM

21 22

23 24 25

27 28

13 Battery indicator..........................48

14 Frame count..................................49

Preset white balance

recording indicator.................. 155

Manual lens number............... 224

15 “K” (appears when memory

remains for over 1000

exposures) .....................................49

16 FV lock indicator....................... 203

17 Flash sync indicator................. 330

18 Clock battery indicator ... 41, 401

19 GPS connection indicator ..... 226

20 Focus mode indicator................74

21 Interval timer indicator .......... 218

Multiple exposure indicator

....................................... 212

23 Aperture lock icon ...................128

24 Image comment indicator ....353

25 “Beep” indicator........................324

26 Exposure compensation

indicator.......................................132

27 Exposure and flash bracketing

indicator.......................................135

28 White-balance bracketing

indicator.......................................139

29 Electronic analog exposure

display ..........................................126

Exposure compensation........133

Exposure and flash bracketing

progress indicator ....................135

WB bracketing progress

indicator.......................................139

PC connection indicator ........263

Tilt indicator................................338

The Rear Control Panel

2 3

A LCD Illuminators

Holding the power switch in the D position activates the exposure meters and the control panel backlights (LCD illuminators), allowing the displays to be read in the dark. switch is released, the illuminators will remain lit for six seconds (at default settings) while the exposure meters are active or until the shutter is released.

After the power

Power switch

1 Image quality (JPEG images) ..67

2 “Remaining” indicator...............49

3 Image size......................................71

4 ISO sensitivity indicator......... 108

Auto ISO sensitivity

indicator ......................................110

5 ISO sensitivity............................ 108

ISO sensitivity (high/low gain)

........................................................ 109

Number of exposures

remaining ......................................49

Length of voice memo........... 255

White balance fine-tuning.... 150

White balance preset

number........................................ 162

Color temperature................... 151

PC mode indicator................... 263

6 “K” (appears when memory

remains for over 1000

exposures)..................................... 49

Color temperature

indicator.......................................151

7 Memory card slot indicators... 72

Image quality ............................... 67

8 White-balance bracketing

indicator.......................................139

9 Voice memo recording

indicator (shooting mode) ....253

10 Voice memo status

indicator............................. 255, 256

11 Voice memo recording

mode.............................................253

12 White balance............................144

White balance fine-tuning

indicator.......................................150

The Viewfinder Display

312

22 23

45678 9 10

17 18 19

1 12-mm reference circle for

center-weighted metering... 114

2 AF area brackets...................47, 95

3 Focus points........................ 78, 315

Spot metering targets ............ 114

4 Focus indicator......................55, 84

5 Metering...................................... 114

6 Autoexposure (AE) lock .........129

12 1511 1413 16

7 Exposure mode .........................116

8 Shutter speed lock icon..........127

9 Shutter-speed.................. 120, 124

10 Aperture lock icon....................128

11 Aperture (f-number)...... 122, 124

Aperture

(number of stops)........... 123, 389

12 ISO sensitivity indicator ......... 108

Auto ISO sensitivity

indicator ......................................110

13 ISO sensitivity ............................ 108

14 Frame count..................................49

Number of exposures

remaining ......................................49

Number of shots remaining

before memory buffer fills.......88

Preset white balance

recording indicator.................. 155

Exposure compensation

value .............................................132

PC mode indicator................... 263

15 “K” (appears when memory

remains for over 1000

exposures) .....................................49

* Displayed when an optional flash unit is attached (pg. 191). The flash-

ready indicator lights when the flash is charged.

16 Flash-ready indicator*.............203

17 FV lock indicator .......................203

18 Flash sync indicator .................330

Aperture stop indicator

20 Battery indicator .........................48

21 Electronic analog exposure

display ..........................................126

Exposure compensation display

.........................................................133

Tilt indicator................................338

22 Exposure compensation

indicator.......................................132

23 Exposure and flash bracketing

indicator.......................................135

.. 123, 389

D No Battery

When the battery is totally exhausted or no battery is inserted, the display in the viewfinder will dim. malfunction. The viewfinder display will return to normal when a fullycharged battery is inserted.

This is normal and does not indicate a

D The Control Panel and Viewfinder Displays

The brightness of the control panel and viewfinder displays varies with temperature, and the response times of the displays may drop at low temperatures.

This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

The Shooting Information Display

Shooting information, including shutter speed, aperture, the number of exposures remaining, and AF-area mode is displayed in

the monitor when the R button is pressed. To clear shooting information from the monitor, press the R button again or press the shutter-release button halfway. default settings, the monitor will turn off automatically if no operations are performed for about 20 seconds.

23 4 5 6 7

R button

15 14

13 12

38 37

18 19 20 21

35 34 33 32 31

22 23 24

25 26 27

28 29 30

A See Also

For information on choosing how long the monitor stays on, see Custom Setting c4 ([Monitor off delay], pg. 323). For information on changing the color of the lettering in the shooting information display, see Custom Setting d6 ([Shooting info display], pg. 328).

1 Exposure mode......................... 116

2 Flexible program indicator... 119

3 Shutter-speed lock icon......... 127

4 Shutter speed................... 120, 124

Exposure compensation

value .............................................132

Number of shots in exposure and flash bracketing sequence

........................................................ 135

Number of shots in WB

bracketing sequence .............. 139

Focal length

(non-CPU lenses)...................... 224

Multiple exposure indicator

6 Aperture lock icon ...................128

7 Aperture (f-number) ......122, 124

Aperture

(number of stops) ...........123, 389

Exposure and flash bracketing

increment ................................... 136

WB bracketing increment ..... 140

Maximum aperture

(non-CPU lenses)...................... 224

Aperture stop indicator

9 Number of exposures

remaining ......................................49

10 “K” (appears when memory

remains for over 1000

exposures) .....................................49

11 Frame count..................................49

Manual lens number............... 224

12 Memory card indicator

(slot 2).......................................42, 45

13 Memory card indicator

(slot 1).......................................42, 45

14 Custom settings bank............. 308

15 Shooting menu bank.............. 295

.... 212

...123, 389

16 Flash sync indicator .................330

17 Flash mode..................................198

18 Clock battery indicator....41, 401

19 FV lock indicator .......................203

20 Interval timer indicator...........218

21 Image comment indicator ....353

22 Copyright information

indicator.......................................360

23 “Beep” indicator........................324

24 Exposure compensation

indicator.......................................132

25 Battery indicator .........................48

26 Exposure and flash bracketing

indicator.......................................135

WB bracketing indicator ........139

27 Focus mode indicator............... 74

28 Long exposure noise reduction

indicator.......................................304

29 Color space indicator ..............187

30 Picture Control indicator........169

31 Active D-Lighting indicator...185 32 High ISO noise reduction

indicator.......................................304

33 Vignette control........................303

34 Release mode (single frame/

continuous) indicator................ 86

Continuous shooting speed

35 Auto-area AF indicator .............77

Focus points indicator .............. 78

AF-area mode indicator ...........77

3D-tracking indicator .......77, 312

36 Image area indicator .................61

37 GPS connection indicator......226

38 Electronic analog exposure

display ..........................................126

....325

The Command Dials

The main- and sub-command dials are used alone or in combination with other controls to adjust a variety of settings.

Fn button

Sub-command dial

BKT button

M button

F button

E button

I button

Main command dial

WB buttonISO button QUAL button

❚❚ Image Quality and Size

Press the Fn or QUAL button and rotate the command dials.

Choose an image area (pg.

64)

Fn button Main command dial Shooting information

* The DX format image area is automatically selected when a DX lens is

attached.

Set image quality (pg. 67)

QUAL button Main command dial Rear control panel

Choose an image size (pg. 71)

display

QUAL button Sub-command dial Rear control panel

❚❚ ISO Sensitivity

Press the ISO button and rotate the main command dial.

Set ISO sensitivity (pg.

108)

ISO button Main command dial Rear control panel

❚❚ Exposure

Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to choose the exposure mode.

Choose the exposure mode (pg. 117)

I button Main command dial Top control panel

Use the command dials to adjust exposure.

Choose a combination of aperture and shutter speed (exposure mode e; pg. 119)

Choose a shutter speed (exposure mode f or h; pg. 120, 125)

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Exposure

mode e

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Exposure

mode f or h

Main

command dial

Main

command dial

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Top control panel

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Top control panel

Choose an aperture (exposure mode g or h; pg. 122, 125)

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Exposure

mode g or h

Sub-command

dial

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Top control panel

Set exposure compensation (pg. 132)

Shutter speed lock (exposure mode f or h; pg. 127)

Aperture lock (exposure mode g or h; pg. 128)

E button Main command dial Top control panel

SHOOT

F button Main command dial Top control panel

CUSTOM

SHOOT CUSTOM

F button Sub-command dial Top control panel

Activate or cancel

bracketing/ select number of shots in bracketing sequence (pp. 135, 138)

Select bracketing exposure increment (pg.

136)

D button Main command dial Top control panel

D button Sub-command dial Top control panel

❚❚ White Balance

Press the WB button and rotate the command dials.

Choose a white balance setting (pg. 145)

Fine-tune white balance (pg. 150), set color temperature (pg. 151), or choose a white balance preset (pg. 162)

WB button Main command dial Rear control panel

WB button Sub-command dial Rear control panel

❚❚ Flash Settings

Press the M button and rotate the main command dial.

Choose flash mode (pg. 200)

M button Main command dial Top control panel

A The Fn Button

Depending on the option selected for Custom Setting f4 ([Assign FUNC. button], pg. 336), the Fn button and command dials can be used to select from FX, DX, and 5 : 4 image areas, toggle between FX and DX image areas, select shutter speed and aperture in steps of 1 EV, choose prespecified lens data for non-CPU lenses, select the focus point, or choose a shooting menu bank.

A The Depth-of-Field Preview and AE-L/AF-L Buttons

Depending on the options selected for Custom Settings f5 ([Assign preview button], pg. 342) and f6 ([Assign AE-L/AF-L button], pg. 343), the depth-of-field preview and AE-L/AF-L buttons can be used with the command dials to perform the same functions as the Fn button.

The BS-2 Accessory Shoe Cover

The supplied BS-2 accessory shoe cover can be used to protect the accessory shoe or to prevent light

reflected from the metal parts of the shoe from appearing in photographs. The BS-2 attaches to the camera accessory shoe as shown at right.

To remove the accessory shoe cover, hold it down with your thumb and slide it off as shown at right while keeping a firm grip on the camera.

Quick Start Guide

Follow these steps for a quick start with the D3.

Charge the battery (pg. 32).

Insert the battery (pg. 34).

Attach a lens (pg. 37).

Insert a memory card (pg. 42).

Mounting

index

Back

Turn the camera on (pg. 48).

For information on choosing a language and setting the time and date, see page 39. See page 47 for information on adjusting viewfinder focus.

Check camera settings (pp. 48, 51).

Exposure

mode

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Number of exposures

remaining

Top control panel

Select single-servo autofocus (pg. 53).

Rotate the focus-mode selector to S (single-servo autofocus).

Focus and shoot (pp. 55, 56).

Press the shutter-release button halfway to focus, then press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the photograph.

View the

Battery level

Frame

count

Image size

Rear control panel

Focus indicator

White balance

Image qualityISO sensitivity

photograph (pg. 57).

Delete unwanted photos (pg. 58).

Press O twice to delete the current photograph.

K button

O button

Tutorial

This section describes how to use the camera menus, how to ready the camera for use, and how to take your first pictures and play them back.

Camera Menus .................................................................. pg. 26

Using Camera Menus ..................................................................... pg. 28

Help ...................................................................................................... pg. 31

First Steps .......................................................................... pg. 32

Charge the Battery .......................................................................... pg. 32

Insert the Battery ............................................................................. pg. 34

Attach a Lens..................................................................................... pg. 37

Basic Setup......................................................................................... pg. 39

Insert a Memory Card..................................................................... pg. 42

Formatting Memory Cards ........................................................... pg. 45

Adjust Viewfinder Focus................................................................ pg. 47

Basic Photography and Playback...................................pg. 48

Turn the Camera On ....................................................................... pg. 48

Adjust Camera Settings................................................................. pg. 51

Ready the Camera ........................................................................... pg. 54

Focus and Shoot .............................................................................. pg. 55

Viewing Photographs..................................................................... pg. 57

Deleting Unwanted Photographs ............................................. pg. 58

Camera Menus

Most shooting, playback, and setup options can be accessed from the camera menus. view the menus, press the G button.

Tab s

Choose from playback, shooting, Custom Settings, setup, retouch, and My menus (see following page).

If “Q” icon is displayed, help for current item can be viewed by pressing L (Q) button (pg. 31).

G button

Slider shows position in current menu.

Current settings are shown by icons.

Menu optionsQ

Options in current menu.

❚❚ Menus

The following menus are available:

Menu Description

D Playback

C Shooting Adjust shooting settings (pg. 294). A Custom Settings Personalize camera settings (pg. 306).

B Setup

N Retouch

O My Menu

Adjust playback settings and manage photos (pg.

282).

Format memory cards and perform basic camera setup (pg. 349). Create retouched copies of existing photographs (pg. 366). Create a menu of custom options (pg. 379). If desired, a menu of recently-used settings can be displayed in place of [My Menu] (pg. 383).

Using Camera Menus

❚❚ Menu Controls

The multi selector and J button are used to navigate the menus.

Select highlighted item

Select highlighted item or display submenu

Cancel and return to previous menu

Move cursor

down

❚❚ Navigating the Menus

Follow the steps below to navigate the menus.

1 Display the menus.

Press the G button to display the menus.

2 Highlight the icon for the

current menu.

Press 4 to highlight the icon for the current menu.

J button

Select highlighted

item

G button

3 Select a menu.

Press 1 or 3 to select the desired menu.

4 Position the cursor in the

selected menu.

Press 2 to position the cursor in the selected menu.

5 Highlight a menu item.

Press 1 or 3 to highlight a menu item.

6 Display options.

Press 2 to display options for the selected menu item.

7 Highlight an option.

Press 1 or 3 to highlight an option.

8 Select the highlighted item.

Press J to select the highlighted item. To exit without making a selection, press the G button.

Note the following points:

• Menu items that are displayed in gray are not currently available.

• While pressing 2 or the center of the multi selector generally has

the same effect as pressing J, there are some cases in which selection can only be made by pressing J.

• To exit the menus and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway (pg. 56).

J button

Help

If a Q icon is displayed at the bottom left corner of the monitor, help can be displayed by pressing the L (Q) button. description of the currently selected option or menu will be displayed while the button is pressed. the display.

Press 1 or 3 to scroll through

L button

First Steps

Charge the Battery

The D3 is powered by an EN-EL4a rechargeable Li-ion battery (supplied).

The EN-EL4a is not fully charged at shipment. shooting time, charge the battery in the supplied MH-22 quick charger before use. required to fully recharge the battery when no charge remains.

About two hours and twenty-five minutes are

1 Plug the charger in.

Insert the AC adapter plug into the battery charger and plug the power cable into an electrical outlet. will remain off.

All lamps

2 Remove the terminal cover.

Remove the terminal cover from the battery.

To max i mize

3 Remove the contact protector.

Remove the contact protector of the quick charger’s battery chambers.

4 Charge the battery.

Contacts

Chamber

lamps

Guide

Insert the battery (terminals first), aligning the end of the battery with the guide and then sliding the battery in the direction indicated until it clicks into place.

The chamber lamp

and charge lamps will blink while the battery charges:

Chamber

Charge state

Less than 50% of maximum capacity H (blinks) H (blinks) I (off) I (off ) 50–80% of maximum capacity H (blinks) K (glows) H (blinks) I (off) More than 80% but less than 100% of maximum capacity 100% of maximum capacity K (glows) I (off) I (off) I (off )

lamp

H (blinks) K (g lows) K (glows) H (blinks)

Charge lamps

50% 80% 1 00%

Charging is complete when the chamber lamp stops blinking and the charge lamps turn off. About two hours and twentyfive minutes are required to fully charge an exhausted battery.

5 Remove the battery when charging is complete.

Remove the battery and unplug the charger.

Charge lamps (green)

A Calibration

See page 441 for more information on calibration.

Insert the Battery

1 Turn the camera off.

Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing

batteries.

2 Remove the battery-chamber cover.

Lift the battery-chamber cover latch, turn it to the open (A) position (q) and remove the BL-4 battery-chamber cover (w).

3 Attach the cover to the battery.

If the battery release is positioned so that the arrow (4) is visible, slide the battery release to cover the arrow. projections on the battery into the matching slots in the cover and slide the battery release to reveal the arrow.

A The BL-4 Battery-Chamber Cover

The battery can be charged with the BL-4 attached. inside the battery chamber when the battery is not inserted, slide the battery release in the direction indicated by the arrow (4), remove the BL-4 from the battery, and replace it on the camera.

The BL-1 battery-chamber cover for D2-series cameras can not be used.

To prevent dust from accumulating

Insert the two

Power switch

4 Insert the battery.

Insert the battery as shown at right.

5 Latch the cover.

To prevent the battery from becoming dislodged during operation, rotate the latch to the closed position and fold it down as shown at right. Be sure the cover is securely latched.

A EN-EL4a Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries

The supplied EN-EL4a shares information with compatible devices, enabling the camera to show battery charge state in six levels (pg. 48). The [Battery info] option in the setup menu details battery charge, battery life, and the number of pictures taken since the battery was last charged (pg. 358). The battery can be recalibrated as necessary to ensure that battery level continues to be reported accurately (pg. 441).

D The Battery and Charger

Read and follow the warnings and cautions on pages xviii–xx and 406–409 of this manual.

the battery is not in use.

Do not use the battery at ambient temperatures below 0°C (32°F) or above 40°C (104 °F). Charge indoors at ambient temperatures in the vicinity of 5–35°C (41–95°F); for best results, charge the battery at

temperatures above 20°C (68 °F). Battery capacity may temporarily drop if the battery is charged at low temperatures or used at a temperature below the temperature at which it was charged. If the battery is charged at a temperature below 5°C (41°F), the battery life indicator in the [Battery info] display may show a temporary decrease.

The battery may be hot immediately after use. Wait for the battery to cool before recharging.

Use the charger with compatible batteries only. Unplug when not in use.

To prevent short-circuits, replace the terminal cover when

A Compatible Batteries

The camera can also be used with EN-EL4 rechargeable Li-ion batteries.

A Removing the Battery

Before removing the battery, turn the camera off and lift the battery-chamber cover latch, turn it to the open (A) position. replace the terminal cover when the battery is not in use.

To prevent short-circuits,

Attach a Lens

Care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the camera when the lens is removed.

1 Remove the rear lens cap and the camera body cap.

After confirming that the camera is off, remove the rear lens cap from the lens and remove the camera body cap.

2 Attach the lens.

Keeping the mounting mark on the lens aligned with the mounting mark on the camera body, position the lens in the camera’s bayonet mount. release button, rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place.

Being careful not to press the lens-

Mounting index

If the lens is equipped with an A-M or

M/A-M switch, select A (autofocus) or M/ A (autofocus with manual priority).

❚❚ Detaching the Lens

Be sure the camera is off when removing or exchanging lenses. and hold the lens release button while turning the lens clockwise. After removing the lens, replace the lens caps and camera body cap.

To remove the lens, press

D CPU Lenses with Aperture Rings

In the case of CPU lenses equipped with an aperture ring (pg. 388), lock aperture at the minimum setting (highest f-number). for details.

A Lens

An AF Nikkor 85 mm f/1.4D lens is used in this manual for illustrative purposes.

See the lens manual

Lens cap

A Image Area

The DX format image area is automatically selected when a DX lens is attached.

Mounting index

CPU contacts (pg. 388)

Aperture ring

A-M mode switch (pg. 37)

Focus ring (pg. 83)

Image area

Basic Setup

The language option in the setup menu is automatically highlighted the first time menus are displayed. Choose a language and set the time and date.

1 Turn the camera on.

2 Select [language].

Press G to display the camera menus, then select [Language] in the setup menu. For information on using menus, see “Using Camera Menus” (pg. 28).

3 Select a language.

Press 1 or 3 to highlight the desired language and press J.

Power switch

G button

4 Select [World time].

Select [World time] and press

5 Set time zone.

A time-zone selection dialog will be displayed. to highlight the local time zone (the [UTC] field shows the difference between the selected time zone and Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in hours) and press J.

Press 4 or 2

6 Turn daylight saving time

on or off.

Daylight saving time options will be displayed. saving time is off by default; if daylight saving time is in effect in the local time zone, press 1 to highlight [On] and press J.

Daylight

7 Set the date and time.

The dialog shown at right will be displayed. select an item, 1 or 3 to change. Press J when the clock is set to the current date and time.

Press 4 or 2 to

8 Set date format.

Press 1 or 3 to choose the order in which the year, month, and day will be displayed and press J.

9 Exit to shooting mode.

Press the shutter-release button halfway to exit to shooting mode.

A The B Icon

If a flashing B icon appears in the top control panel the first time the camera is used, check that clock settings (including time zone and daylight saving time) are correct. button is pressed to exit the menu.

A The Clock Battery

The camera clock is powered by a separate, non-rechargeable CR1616 lithium battery with a life of about four years. exhausted, a B icon will be displayed in the top control panel while the exposure meters are on. For information on replacing the clock battery, see page 401.

A The Camera Clock

The camera clock is less accurate than most watches and household

Check the clock regularly against more accurate time pieces and

clocks. reset as necessary.

The icon will stop flashing when the J

When this battery is

Insert a Memory Card

The camera stores photographs on CompactFlash and microdrive memory cards (available separately; pg. 397). cards can be inserted in the camera simultaneously. section describes how to insert and format a memory card.

Up to two memory

The following

1 Turn the camera off.

Always turn the camera off before inserting or removing memory cards.

Power switch

2 Open the card slot cover.

Open the door protecting the card-slot cover release button (q) and press the release button (w) to open the card slot (e).

A Memory Card Slots

Slot 1 is for the main card; the card in slot 2 plays a backup or secondary role. If the default setting of [Overflow] is selected for [Slot 2] (pg. 72) when two memory cards are inserted, the card in slot 2 will only be used when the card in slot 1 is full.

Slot 1

The card currently in use is indicated in the top control panel.

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Slot 2

3 Insert the memory card.

Insert the first memory card in slot 1. Slot 2 should be used only if a card is already inserted in slot 1. memory card with the rear label toward the monitor (q). card is fully inserted, the eject button will pop up (w) and the green access lamp will light briefly.

Insert the

When the memory

D Inserting Memory Cards

Insert the memory card terminals first. Inserting the card upside down or backwards could damage the camera or the card. Check to be sure that the card is in the correct orientation.

4 Close the card slot cover.

Access lamp

Rear label

Direction of insertion

Terminals

Rear label

❚❚ Removing Memory Cards

1 Turn the camera off.

Confirm that the access lamp is off and turn the camera off.

Access lamp

2 Remove the memory card.

Open the memory card slot cover (q) and press the eject button (w) to partially eject the card (e). card can then be removed by hand. not push on the memory card while pressing the eject button. could damage the camera or memory card.

D Memory Cards

• Memory cards may be hot after use.

removing memory cards from the camera.

• Memory cards that have been formatted in a computer or other device

must be reformatted in the camera before they can be used for recording or playback.

• Turn the power off before inserting or removing memory cards. Do not

remove memory cards from the camera, turn the camera off, or remove or disconnect the power source during formatting or while data are being recorded, deleted, or copied to a computer. Failure to observe these precautions could result in loss of data or in damage to the camera or card.

• Do not touch the card terminals with your fingers or metal objects.

• Do not bend, drop, or subject to strong physical shocks.

• Do not apply force to the card casing. Failure to observe this precaution

could damage the card.

• Do not expose to water, high levels of humidity, or direct sunlight.

The memory

Failure to observe this precaution

Observe due caution when

Formatting Memory Cards

Memory cards must be formatted before first use. Format the card as described below.

D Formatting Memory Cards

Formatting memory cards permanently deletes any data they may contain. Be sure to copy any photographs and other data you wish to keep to a computer before proceeding (pg. 260).

1 Turn the camera on.

2 Press the Q buttons.

Hold the Q (I and O) buttons down simultaneously for approximately two seconds.

A blinking C will appear in the shutter-speed displays in the viewfinder and top control panel. two memory cards are inserted, the main command dial can be used to select the card to be formatted; check that the correct card is selected in the top control panel before proceeding. card, press any button other than the Q (I and O) buttons.

To exit without formatting the memory

Power switch

O button

SHOOT

I button

3 Press the Q buttons again.

Press the Q (I and O) buttons together a second time to format the memory card.

remove or disconnect the power source during formatting.

Do not remove the memory card or

When formatting is complete, the top control panel will show the number of photographs that can be recorded at current settings and the frame-count

SHOOT

CUSTOM

displays will show B.

A No Memory Card

If no memory card is inserted, the top control panel and viewfinder will show S. If the camera is turned off with a charged EN-EL4a battery and no memory card inserted, S will be displayed in the top control panel.

A See Also

See page 350 for information on formatting memory cards using the [Format memory card] option in the setup menu.

Adjust Viewfinder Focus

The camera is equipped with diopter adjustment to accommodate individual differences in vision. Check that the display in the viewfinder is in focus before shooting.

1 Lift the diopter adjustment knob.

Remove the lens cap, turn the camera on, and pull the diopter adjustment knob out (q).

2 Focus the viewfinder.

Rotate the diopter adjustment knob (w) until the viewfinder display, and AF area brackets are in sharp focus.

3 Replace the diopter adjustment

knob.

Push the diopter adjustment knob back in (e).

A Diopter Adjustment Viewfinder Lenses

Corrective lenses (available separately; pg. 393) can be used to further adjust viewfinder diopter. Before attaching a diopter-adjustment viewfinder lens, remove the DK-17 viewfinder eyepiece by closing the viewfinder shutter to release the eyepiece lock (q) and then unscrewing the eyepiece as shown at right (w).

Basic Photography and Playback

Turn the Camera On

Before taking photographs, turn the camera on and check the battery level and number of exposures remaining as described

below.

1 Turn the camera on.

Turn the camera on. The control panels will turn on and the display in the viewfinder will light.

Power switch

2 Check the battery level.

Check the battery level in the viewfinder or top control panel.

Icon

L — Battery fully charged. K —

Battery partially discharged.J —

I —

H d

(blinks)

* No icon displayed when camera is powered by optional AC adapter.

(blinks)

Low battery. Prepare to charge battery or ready spare battery. Shutter release disabled. Charge or exchange battery.

SHOOT

CUSTOM

DescriptionControl panel Viewfinder

3 Check the number of exposures

remaining.

SHOOT

CUSTOM

The top control panel shows the number of photographs that can be taken at current settings. number reaches zero, the number of exposures remaining, frame count, and N icon will flash in the top control panel and a flashing g icon will appear in the viewfinder. until you delete pictures or insert a new memory card. may be able to take additional pictures at lower image quality or size settings.

When this

No further pictures can be taken

SHOOT

CUSTOM

Yo u

A Large-Capacity Memory Cards

When enough memory remains on the memory card to record a thousand or more pictures at current settings, the number of exposures remaining will be shown in thousands, rounded down to the nearest hundred (e.g., if there is room for approximately 1,260 exposures, the exposure count display will show 1.2 K).

SHOOT

CUSTOM

A The Battery Indicator

If the segments in the top control panel battery icon blink on and off, the camera is calculating the battery charge. The battery level will be displayed in about three seconds.

A Auto Meter Off

At default settings, the shutter speed and aperture displays in the top

control panel and viewfinder will turn off if no operations are performed for about six seconds (auto meter off), reducing the drain on the battery. Press the shutter-release button halfway to reactivate the display in the viewfinder (pg. 56).

6 s

SHOOT

CUSTOM

SHOOT

CUSTOM

SHOOT CUSTOM

Exposure meters on Exposure meters off Exposure meters on

The length of time before the exposure meters turn off automatically can be adjusted using Custom Setting c2 ([Auto meter-off delay], pg. 322).

A Camera Off Display

If the camera is turned off with a battery and memory card inserted, the frame count and number of exposures remaining will be displayed (some memory cards may only display this information when the camera is on).

Top c ontr ol pan el

Adjust Camera Settings

This tutorial describes how to take photos at default settings.

1 Check camera settings.

Exposure

mode

SHOOT CUSTOM

Top control panel

Image size

Rear control panel

White balance

Image qualityISO sensitivity

Default settings are listed below.

Option Default Description Page

Image

quality

Image size

ISO

sensitivity

White

balance

Exposure

mode

Focu s point

NORM

(JPEG

normal)

(Large)

200

(Auto)

(

Programm

ed auto

Center

focus point

(single-

point AF)

Record J PEG images at a compression rat io of roughly 1 : 8

* [Size priority] selected for [JPEG compression].

FX format images are 4,256 × 2,832 pixels in size.

ISO sensitivity (digital equivalent of film speed) set to ISO 200.

White balance is adjusted automatically for natural colors under most types of lighting.

Camera automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure in most situations.

)

Viewfinder focus point display is shown above. center focus point when shutter-release button is pressed halfway.

. Ideal for snapshots.

Focus point

Camera focuses on subject in

108

144

116

2 Choose exposure mode e.

Press the I button and rotate the main command dial to select exposure

mode e. adjust shutter speed and aperture for optimal exposure in most situations.

The camera will automatically

I button

Main command dial

3 Choose single frame

release mode.

Hold the release mode dial lock release down and turn the release mode dial to S (single frame).

At this setting, the camera will take one photograph each time the shutter-release button is pressed.

4 Choose single-point AF.

Rotate the AF-area mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to K (single-point AF).

At this setting, the user

can choose the focus point.

Release mode dial lock release

Release mode dial

AF-area mode selector

5 Choose single-servo

autofocus.

Rotate the focus-mode selector until it clicks into place pointing to S (single-servo autofocus). camera will automatically focus on the subject in the selected focus point when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. focus.

At this setting, the

Pictures can only be taken when the camera is in

Focus-mode selector

6 Choose matrix metering.

Press the metering selector lock button and rotate the metering selector to a (matrix metering). uses information from the 1,005-segment RGB sensor to ensure optimal results for the entire frame.

Matrix metering

Metering selector

Ready the Camera

When framing photographs in the viewfinder, hold the handgrip in your right hand and cradle the camera body or lens with your left. lightly against your torso for support and

place one foot half a pace ahead of the other to keep you upper body stable.

When framing photographs in portrait (tall) orientation, unlock the shutter-release button for vertical shooting (pg. 5) and hold the camera as shown at right.

For information on framing photographs in the monitor, see page 90.

Keep your elbows propped

Focus and Shoot

1 Press the shutter-

release button halfway to focus (pg.

56).

At default settings, the camera will focus on the subject in the center focus point. Frame a photo in the viewfinder with the main subject positioned in the center focus point and press the shutter-release button halfway. to focus, the in-focus indicator (I) will appear in the viewfinder.

Viewfinder display Description

I Subject in focus.

2 Focus point is between camera and subject.

4 Focus point is behind subject.

(blinks)

While the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, focus will lock and the number of exposures that can be stored in the memory buffer (“t”; pg. 88) will be shown in the viewfinder display.

Camera unable to focus on subject in focus point using autofocus.

Focus indicator

If the camera is able

Buffer capacity

For information on what to do if the camera is unable to focus using autofocus, see “Getting Good Results with Autofocus” (pg. 82).

2 Press the shutter-release

button the rest of the way down to shoot.

Smoothly press the shutter-

release-button the rest of the way down to take the picture. While the photograph is being recorded to the memory card, the access lamp next to the card slot cover will light.

camera off, or remove or disconnect the power source until the lamp has gone out.

Do not eject the memory card, turn the

Access lamp

A The Shutter-Release Button

The camera has a two-stage shutter-release button. when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. To take the photograph, press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down.

Focus Take

The camera focuses

photograph

Viewing Photographs

MALAL

1 Press the K button.

The most recent photograph will be displayed in the monitor.

2 View additional pictures.

Additional pictures can be displayed by pressing 4 or 2.

To view additional information

NIKON D3

1/ 10

on the current photograph, press 1 and 3 (pg. 233).

125, F5. 6 200 85

0. 0

AUTO 0, 0

100

NC_

D3 DSC_0001. JPG

/12/

2007 10:16:00

NNOR

4256x2832

The card containing the current photograph is indicated by an icon as shown at right.

To end playback and return to shooting mode, press the shutter-release button halfway.

A Image Review

When [On] is selected for [Image review] in the playback menu (pg. 291), photographs are automatically displayed in the monitor for about 20 s (the default setting) after shooting.

Deleting Unwanted Photographs

To delete the photograph currently displayed in the monitor, press the O button. deleted.

1 Display the photograph.

Display the photograph you wish to delete as described in “Viewing Photographs” on the previous page.

K button

The card containing the current photograph is indicated by an icon as shown at right.

Note that photographs can not be recovered once

2 Delete the photograph.

Press the O button. A confirmation dialog will be displayed.

O button

Press the O button again to delete the image and return to playback.

To exit without deleting the picture, press K.

A [Delete]

To delete multiple images or to delete images from the second of two memory cards, use the [Delete] option in the playback menu (pg. 285).

Image Recording Options

This section describes how to choose image area, quality, and size and how to choose the role played by memory card slot 2.

Image Area .........................................................................pg. 60

Image Quality.....................................................................pg. 66

Image Size...........................................................................pg. 70

Slot 2 ....................................................................................pg. 72

Image Area

The camera’s FX format (36.0 × 23.9 mm) image sensor can be used to record pictures with an image area (picture angle) equivalent to a 35mm (135) format film camera. [Image area] option in the shooting menu.

At the default setting of [Auto DX crop], the camera will automatically crop pictures to the DX picture angle when a DX format lens is attached. used to select a 35mm picture angle or to crop photographs to the DX format picture angle or to a 5 : 4 aspect ratio.

❚❚ Auto DX Crop

Choose whether to automatically select a DX crop when a DX lens is attached.

(default)

Image area is selected using the

The [Choose image area] option can be

Option Description

Camera automatically selects DX crop when DX lens is attached.

Off Crop selected for [Choose image area] is used.

❚❚ Choose Image Area

Choose the image area used when [Off] is selected for [Auto DX crop] (pg. 63).

Option Description

Images are recorded in FX format using the full area of the image sensor (36.0 × 23.9 mm), producing a picture angle equivalent to a Nikkor lens on a 35mm format camera. The edges of pictures taken with DX format lenses will be blacked out. An area at the center of the image sensor 23.5 × 15.6 mm is used to record pictures in DX format. To calculate the approximate focal length of the lens in 35mm format, multiply by 1.5.

Pictures are recorded with an aspect ratio of 5 : 4 (30.0 × 23.9 mm). The edges of pictures taken with DX format lenses will be blacked out.

FX format (36x24)

DX format (24x16)

5:4 (30x24)

A DX Lenses

DX lenses are designed for use with DX format cameras and have a smaller picture angle than lenses for 35mm format cameras. off and [FX format (36 × 24)] or [5 :4 (30 × 24)] is selected for [Image area] when a DX lens is attached, the edges of the image may be eclipsed. This may not be apparent in the viewfinder, but when the images are played back you may notice a drop in resolution or that the edges of the picture are blacked out.

If [Auto DX crop] is

DX format (24 × 16) image circle

DX format

5:4

FX format

FX format (36 × 24) image circle

A The Viewfinder Display

The DX format and 5 :4 crops are shown below.

DX format 5 : 4

Image area can be set using the [Image area] option in the shooting menu or (at default settings) by pressing the Fn button and rotating the main command dial.

❚❚ The Image Area Menu

1 Select [Image area].

Highlight [Image area] in the shooting menu (pg. 294) and press 2.

2 Choose an option.

Highlight [Auto DX crop] or [Choose image area] and press 2.

3 Adjust settings.

Choose an option and press J. The selected crop is displayed in the viewfinder (pg. 62).

❚❚ The Fn Button

The image area can be selected by pressing the Fn button and rotating the main command dial until the desired crop is displayed in the viewfinder (pg. 62). operation (the default option for the Fn button and command dials;

pg. 339) can not be performed while a multiple exposure is being recorded (pg. 213).

The option currently selected for image area can be viewed by pressing the Fn button to display the image area in the viewfinder, top control panel, or shooting information display.

FX format is displayed as “36 × 24”, DX format as “24 × 16”, and 5 : 4 as “30 × 24” (in the viewfinder, “×” is replaced by “-”; e.g., “36 - 24”).

This

Fn button

Main command

dial

A Information Display (pg. 14)

The current image area selection can be viewed by pressing the R button to display shooting information in the monitor. [FX format (36 × 24)] is selected, a when [DX format (24 × 16)] is selected, and b when [5 : 4 (30 × 24)] is selected.

c is displayed when

D Auto DX Crop

The Fn button can not be used to select image area when a DX lens is attached and [Auto DX crop] is on.

A The Fn, Depth-of-Field Preview, and AE-L/AF-L Buttons

Changes to image area settings can be made using the Fn button (the default setting, see Custom Setting f4, [Assign FUNC. button], pg. 336), the depth-of-field preview button (Custom setting f5, [Assign preview button]), pg. 342), or the AE-L/AF-L button (Custom Setting f6, [Assign AE-L/ AF-L button], pg. 343). Note that some “button press” options can not be combined with options using “+dials.”

A Image Size

Image size varies with the option selected for image area.

Image Quality

The camera supports the following image quality options.

Option File type Description

Raw data from the image sensor are saved directly to the memory card in Nikon Electronic Format (NEF). Use with images that will be

NEF (RAW) NEF

TIFF (RGB)

(RGB)

transferred to a computer for printing or processing. Note that once transferred to a computer, NEF (RAW) images can only be viewed using compatible software such as ViewNX version 1.0.4 or later (supplied) or Capture NX version 1.3.3 or later or Capture NX 2 (available separately; pg. 395). Record uncompressed TIFF-RGB images at a bit

TIFF

depth of 8 bits per channel (24-bit color). TIFF is supported by a wide variety of imaging applications.

JPEG fine

JPEG normal

JPEG basic

NEF (RAW)+

JPEG fine

NEF (RAW)+

JPEG normal

NEF (RAW)+

JPEG basic

*[Size priority] selected for [JPEG compression].

JPEG

NEF/ JPEG

Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1:4 (fine image quality).

Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1:8 (normal image quality).

Record JPEG images at a compression ratio of roughly 1:16 (basic image quality).

Two images are recorded, one NEF (RAW) image and one fine-quality JPEG image. Two images are recorded, one NEF (RAW) image and one normal-quality JPEG image. Two images are recorded, one NEF (RAW) image and one basic-quality JPEG image.

Image quality is set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the main command dial until the desired setting is displayed in the rear control panel.

QUAL button

Main command

dial

Rear control panel

A File Size

See page 431 for information on the number of pictures that can be recorded at different image quality and size settings.

A NEF (RAW) Recording

The [NEF (RAW) recording] item in the shooting menu controls compression (pg. 69) and bit depth (pg. 69) for NEF (RAW) images.

A JPEG Compression

JPEG images can be compressed for relatively uniform file size or optimal image quality. be used to choose the type of compression (pg. 68).

The [JPEG compression] option in the shooting menu can

A NEF (RAW)+JPEG

If only one memory card is used, only the JPEG image will be displayed when photographs taken at [NEF (RAW ) + JPEG fine], [NEF (RAW) + JPEG normal], or [NEF (RAW) + JPEG basic] are viewed on the camera. the JPEG image deletes the NEF (RAW) copy. If two memory cards are inserted and [RAW Slot 1-JPEG Slot 2] is selected for Slot 2, deleting the JPEG copy from the memory card in slot 2 has no effect on the NEF (RAW ) copy on the memory card in slot 1 (pg. 72).

Deleting

A The Image Quality Menu

Image quality can also be adjusted using the [Image quality] option in the shooting menu (pg. 294).

❚❚ The JPEG Compression Menu

The JPEG compression item in the shooting menu offers the following options for JPEG images:

Option Description

Size priority

(default)

P Optimal quality

Images are compressed to produce relatively uniform file size. Quality varies with scene recorded. Optimal image quality. File size varies with scene recorded.

❚❚ The NEF (RAW) Recording Menu: Type

The [NEF (RAW) recording] > [Type] item in the shooting menu offers the following compression options for NEF (RAW) images:

Option Description

Lossless

compressed

(default)

O Compressed

Uncompressed

NEF images are compressed using a reversible algorithm, reducing file size by about 20–40% with no effect on image quality. NEF images are compressed using a nonreversible algorithm, reducing file size by about 40–55% with almost no effect on image quality. NEF images are not compressed. Recording time increases slightly.

❚❚ The NEF (RAW) Recording Menu: NEF (RAW) Bit Depth

The [NEF (RAW) recording] > [NEF (RAW) bit depth] item in the shooting menu offers the following bit-depth options for NEF (RAW) images:

Option Description

12-bit

(default)

r 14-bit

NEF (RAW) images are recorded at a bit-depth of 12 bits.

NEF (RAW) images are recorded at a bit-depth of 14 bits, producing files larger than 12-bit files but increasing the color data recorded.

Image Size

Image size is measured in pixels. Choose from Large (the default option), Medium, or Small (note that image size varies depending on the option selected for [Image area], pg. 60):

Image area Option Size (pixels) Print size (cm/in.)

FX format

(36 × 24)

DX format

(24 × 16)

5 : 4 (30 × 24)

* Approximate size when printed at 200 dpi. Print size in inches equals image

size in pixels divided by printer resolution in dots per inch (dpi; 1 inch = approximately 2.54 cm). increases.

L 4,256 × 2,832 54.1 × 36.0/21.3 × 14.2

M 3,184 × 2,120 40.4 × 26.9/15.9 × 20.6

S 2,128 × 1,416 27.0 × 18.0/10.6 × 7.1 L 2,784 × 1,848 35.4 × 23.5/13.9 × 9.2

M 2,080 × 1,384 26.4 × 17.6/10.4 × 6.9

S 1,392 × 920 17.7 × 11.7/7.0 × 4.6 L 3,552 × 2,832 45.1 × 36.0/17.8 × 14.2

M 2,656 × 2,120 33.7 × 26.9/13.3 × 20.6

S 1,776 × 1,416 22.6 × 18.0/8.9 × 7.1

Print size decreases as printer resolution

A NEF (RAW) Images

Note that the option selected for image size does not affect the size of NEF (RAW) images. or later or Capture NX 2 (available separately) or ViewNX version 1.0.4 or later (supplied), NEF (RAW) images have the dimensions given for large ([L]-size) images in the table above.

When opened in software such as Capture NX version 1.3.3

Image size can be set by pressing the QUAL button and rotating the sub-command dial until the desired option is displayed in the rear control panel.

QUAL button

Sub-command

dial

Rear control panel

A The Image Size Menu

Image size can also be adjusted using the [Image size] option in the shooting menu (pg. 294).

Slot 2

Use the [Slot 2] option in the shooting menu (pg. 294) to choose the role played by the memory card in slot 2.

Option Rear control panel Description

The memory card in slot 2 is

Overflow

(default)

Backup

RAW Slot 1JPEG Slot 2

used to record photographs when the memory card in slot 1 is full.

Each photograph is recorded to both memory cards.

At image quality settings of NEF (RAW)+JPEG, the NEF (RAW) image is recorded to the memory card in slot 1, the JPEG image to the memory card in slot 2. At other image qualities, this option is the same as [Backup].

D Backup/RAW Slot 1-JPEG Slot 2

When the above options are selected, the shutter-release will be disabled when either of the memory cards is full. panel show the number of exposures remaining on the card with the least amount of available memory. Voice memos (pg. 254) are appended to the copy recorded to the memory card in slot 1.

The viewfinder and top control

Focus

– Controlling How the Camera Focuses

This section describes the options that control how your camera focuses.

Focus Mode ........................................................................pg. 74

AF-Area Mode ....................................................................pg. 76

Focus Point Selection .......................................................pg. 78

Focus Lock ..........................................................................pg. 80

Manual Focus .....................................................................pg. 83

Focus Mode

Focus mode is controlled by the

Focus-mode selector

focus-mode selector on the front of the camera.

There are two autofocus (AF) modes, in which the camera focuses automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway, and one manual focus mode, in which focus must be adjusted manually using the focusing ring on the lens:

Option Description

Camera focuses when shutter-release button is pressed

halfway. Focus locks when in-focus indicator (I) appears

Single-servo

Continuous-

servo AF

Manual (pg. 83)

in viewfinder, and remains locked while shutter-release

button is pressed halfway (focus lock). At default settings,

shutter can only be released when in-focus indicator is

displayed (focus priority).

Camera focuses continuously while shutter-release button

is pressed halfway. If subject moves, camera will engage

predictive focus tracking (pg. 75) to predict final distance to

subject and adjust focus as necessary. At default settings,

shutter can be released whether or not subject is in focus

(release priority).

Camera does not focus automatically; focus must be

adjusted manually using the lens focusing ring. If

maximum aperture of lens is f/5.6 or faster, viewfinder

focus indicator can be used to confirm focus (electronic

range finding; pg. 84), but photographs can be taken at any

time, whether or not subject is in focus.

Choose single-servo AF for landscapes and other stationary subjects. Continuous-servo AF may be a better choice with erraticallymoving subjects. Manual focus is recommended when the camera is unable to focus using autofocus.

Nikon D3 User's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Q&A Index

For Your Safety

Notices

Introduction

Overview

Getting to Know the Camera

Camera Body

The Top Control Panel

The Rear Control Panel

The Viewfinder Display

The Shooting Information Display

The Command Dials

Quick Start Guide

Tutorial

Camera Menus

Using Camera Menus

Help

First Steps

Charge the Battery

Insert the Battery

Attach a Lens

Basic Setup

Insert a Memory Card

Formatting Memory Cards

Adjust Viewfinder Focus

Basic Photography and Playback

Turn the Camera On

Adjust Camera Settings

Ready the Camera

Focus and Shoot

Viewing Photographs

Deleting Unwanted Photographs

Image Recording Options

Image Area

Image Quality

Image Size

Slot 2

Focus

Focus Mode